CLEVELAND, Ohio -- The Cleveland Indians have traded utility infielder Michael Martinez to the Tampa Bay Rays for cash considerations, the team announced Thursday.
Martinez, 34, was designated for assignment May 14, giving the Indians 10 days to trade, waive or outright him from the 40-man roster to the minor leagues.
In 15 appearances this season, Martinez hit .346 (4-for-11) with a double and two walks. Martinez was one of the more popular players in the Tribe clubhouse, with his locker situated close to Carlos Santana and Abraham Almonte.
The versatile infielder also played sparingly in the outfield for manager Terry Francona and even made a relief pitching appearance April 13 in a 10-4 loss to the Chicago White Sox.